Chapter 19, Problem 1AC

The premise that the present is the key to understanding the past is called

1. history.

2. principle of uniformity.

3. principles of geology.

4. philosophy.

To determine

From the following options, the premise that the present is the key to understanding the past is known as:

1. History

2. Principle of uniformity

3. Principles of geology

4. Philosophy

Answer to Problem 1AC

Solution:

Option (b) is correct.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

James Hutton introduced the idea of unchanging, catastrophically formed landscapes.

Explanation:

Reason for correct option:

This idea of Hutton led to the concept of uniform changes, i.e., current changes are consistent with changes that take place in the distant past. This frame of reference is called the principle of uniformity.

The principle of uniformity may be represented by a single statement, “the present is the key to the past”.

Hence, option (b) is correct.

Reasons for incorrect option:

History is the study of past. Hence, option (a) is incorrect.

There is no such phrase as principles of geology. Hence, option (c) is incorrect.

Philosophy is the study of meaning, existence and knowledge. Hence, option (d) is incorrect.

Conclusion:

Principle of uniformity is codified by the phrase that the present is the key to understand the past.